Obituary of Thomas Judson Towne

Thomas Judson Towne passed away on April 26, 2024 at 83 years old. Although he was diagnosed with aggressive Leukemia about 18 months ago, he defied long odds by going into full remission after some brutal chemotherapy. He was so robust, they  kicked him out of hospice. He spent his last year living life to the fullest. He visited with friends, played 18 holes of golf regularly, hunted deer and wild turkey, fished, and attended the weddings of two of his grandchildren. 

Tom studied History at the University of Minnesota and joined ROTC. After graduation he was commissioned as an Officer, joined the Special Forces, and volunteered for two tours in Vietnam. During the Battle of Khe Sanh, Captain Towne was commander of the 623d Air Deliver Company and received the Bronze star while his unit received a Meritorious Unit Citation. Tom served 8 years of active duty including teaching ROTC cadets Military History at Ohio State as an Associate Professor.

Tom raised three strong daughters, was married to his high school sweetheart for over 60 years, and had a successful career in the Insurance business.  He is survived by his wife Kay Towne, his daughters Kelly Branning, Debra Kelly and Katie Carter, sons in law Michael Branning and Chris Carter. He leaves behind his grandchildren Lacy Towne, Kayla Duval, Cassiel Branning, Peden Williams (Bonnie), Alex Branning (Jen), and Katherine Moize (Sellers). Tom had 4 great grandchildren, Riley Kate, Jordan, Levi and Isaac.  He was thrilled by the news of a fifth on the way this July. 

He will be missed by his family and friends, of whom he had many. 

Services with be held at Chapin Presbyterian Church, 600 Old Lexington Hwy. Chapin, SC 29036 on Thursday, May 2, 2024 at 3pm.  Family will greet friends in the church beginning at 2pm.  In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made to the Lowman home (https://www.lutheranhomesscfoundation.org/) or Chapin Presbyterian Church (https://www.chapinpres.org/give/)